“State law doesn’t currently ban it, but many people think breastfeeding is against the law,” Price told The Sentinel when the bill passed the Statehouse last month. “I don’t want women to make a decision not to breastfeed because there’s some kind of a public stigma.”

Price’s bill and a second House bill that excludes breastfeeding from disorderly conduct law are tied to the Breastfeeding Antidiscrimination Act, sponsored by Sen. Rebekah Warren, D-Ann Arbor. Sens. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, and Tonya Schuitmaker, R-Lawton, are co-sponsors. The act ensures women the right to breastfeed in a public place and are allowed full and equal enjoyment of a public accommodation or service while breastfeeding.

The act also prohibits businesses, schools, etc., from posting signs saying breastfeeding women would be denied services or that their presence is unwelcome. It would also allow a woman to sue for injunctive relief of up to $200 in addition to any attorneys fees awarded by a judge.

“Breast-feeding is a natural act with many proven benefits,” Snyder said. “By supporting new mothers we help ensure good infant health, reduce infant mortality rates and prevent obesity.”

The bills align Michigan with the laws of 27 other states and are now Public Acts 197-199 of 2014, respectively.